The fish aren't bought mounted. They are purchased from me whole frozen for the taxidermist to mount for his or her showroom, state, national, or world competition, or to make a replica. I have also sold some fish to taxidermy schools. The competitions based on reproducing fish accurately both anatomically and the original colors (usually done with an airbrush) is a really big deal. Also a very good way to improve skills due to a critique by a judge that is an accomplished and award winning taxidermist.
I have had people fish my ponds and have me mount the fish for them but not many.
The replica market it there because many anglers refuse to kill a fish, and prefer to release it. A replica is produced that was molded off a fish that as of a similar size. The blank is painted to look like the real thing.
The following photo is a replica largemouth bass done by a friend and colleague in the trade. I did not supply the fish for the mold, but I do supply other species. As you can see the quality can be quite good done by a skilled artist.
